Pilot William Franklin Buckelew

Pilot William Franklin Buckelew | United States Department of Justice - Immigration and Naturalization Service - United States Border Patrol, U.S. Government
United States Department of Justice - Immigration and Naturalization Service - United States Border Patrol, U.S. Government
Pilot William Franklin Buckelew

United States Department of Justice - Immigration and Naturalization Service - United States Border Patrol, U.S. Government

End of Watch Friday, July 23, 1954

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William Franklin Buckelew

Pilot William Buckelew and Inspector Donald Kee were killed in an airplane accident near Rio Grande City, Texas, while conducting flights to check farm laborers. The plane was banking to return to a field when it suddenly plunged into the Rio Grande River. Inspector Kee was killed on impact and Pilot Buckelew succumbed to his injuries en route to a hospital.

Pilot Buckelew had served with the agency for nine and half years and had previously served with the United States Army Field Artillery. He was survived by his wife and is buried in the Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas.

Bio

  • Age 35
  • Tour 9 years, 5 months
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Aircraft accident
  • Location Texas
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Thank you for your service and today we take the time to remind you and your family that your sacrifice is one that will never, ever be forgotten. Rest in peace always.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

July 23, 2020

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